The USS Wasp was an aircraft carrier that played a crucial role in the United States Navy during World War II. As part of the efforts to secure the Solomon Islands, the Wasp was involved in supporting U.S. ground forces during the Guadalcanal Campaign. On September 15, the ship was conducting operations when it was targeted by Japanese submarines. A series of torpedoes struck the ship, causing extensive damage and igniting fires that engulfed the flight deck. Despite valiant efforts by the crew to manage the crisis and save the vessel, the damage proved insurmountable, and the Wasp capsized and sank within hours.

The loss of the Wasp had immediate repercussions, including the loss of aircraft and pilots onboard, which further strained U.S. naval capabilities in the Pacific. The incident served as a stark reminder of the risks associated with naval warfare and the necessity for effective anti-submarine measures. As U.S. forces continued to engage in combat in the Pacific, the sinking of the Wasp underscored the fierce competition for air and naval superiority in the region, which was pivotal for determining the outcome of future battles.

In addition, the tragic fate of the USS Wasp highlighted the ever-evolving nature of naval warfare, where aircraft carriers had become critical assets. The incident generated ongoing discussions about naval strategy, defense mechanisms, and the growing threat posed by submarine warfare. This event became a part of the broader narrative of the Guadalcanal Campaign, impacting subsequent military operations as U.S. forces adapted to new challenges posed by their adversaries.